15 Best Cities to Visit in Greece, Every year, Greece attracts a multitude of tourists who are eager to bask in its radiant sunshine. The country’s charm extends beyond the renowned city of Athens, which boasts an abundance of remarkable historical sites. Greece also boasts a collection of delightful cities, some nestled amidst rocky hills while others offer breathtaking views of the surrounding waters. With numerous islands waiting to be discovered, Greece’s best cities are situated in awe-inspiring locations that never fail to captivate visitors.
Kalambaka [SEE MAP]
Although the main reason tourists flock to this charming town is to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Meteora pinnacles, Kalambaka itself offers a serene and enjoyable experience. Visitors can explore a delightful tenth-century church, indulge in delicious meals at the local restaurants, and relax at cozy cafes.
Undoubtedly, the Meteora steals the spotlight with its twenty-four monasteries majestically perched on the rocky peaks. The scenery in this region is truly captivating, adorned with enchanting waterfalls, ancient bridges, mysterious caves, and picturesque hiking trails.
Kalamata
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Situated on the enchanting shores of Messinian Bay, with the majestic Mount Taygetos towering in the background, Kalamata offers a captivating setting to indulge in leisurely moments. This charming city, serving as the capital of Messenia, boasts a grand cathedral and a picturesque old town that beckon visitors to immerse themselves in its beauty. Additionally, Kalamata boasts a formidable fort and a collection of delightful museums. While many travelers utilize Kalamata as a starting point to explore the other remarkable attractions in Messenia, it remains a destination in its own right, offering a delightful escape from the ordinary.
Corfu Town
Corfu Town is undeniably one of the most charming cities to explore in Greece. Its historic center boasts of stunning Venetian architecture and numerous ancient churches that are sure to captivate any visitor. The town’s narrow streets are a delight to wander, and the two hillforts offer a picturesque view of the surroundings. Being the main port of entry to the island, the town can get quite crowded, but this also means that there are plenty of dining and drinking options for tourists to indulge in.
Kavala
Situated in the northern region of Greece, Kavala boasts a charming historical center, breathtaking beaches, and an abundance of archaeological sites that are sure to captivate visitors. With its idyllic location by crystal-clear turquoise waters, complemented by the presence of an ancient citadel and a captivating Ottoman aqueduct gracefully spanning over the rooftops of the houses, Kavala offers a delightful ambiance. Many travelers utilize this enchanting city as a starting point to explore the nearby Aegean Islands.
Rethymno
Rethymno, located in Crete, is renowned for its stunning azure waters along the waterfront and pristine beaches, making it an exceptional destination to explore. The captivating blend of Venetian, Roman, and Ottoman architectural styles adds to the enchantment of strolling through the old town. Additionally, Rethymno boasts a vibrant atmosphere due to its thriving student community and an abundance of excellent dining establishments. The crowning jewel of this town is the magnificent Venetian fortress, which offers panoramic views of the entire area from its western vantage point.
Patras
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Patras, a bustling port in Greece, may initially give off a gritty impression when observed from a departing ferry at its harbor. Yet, upon closer inspection, one will discover charming and vibrant aspects within the city, with the remarkable castle being a notable highlight.
Additionally, there is a beautiful old church and cathedral to explore, and the modern suspension bridge spanning across the water offers a truly awe-inspiring sight. Moreover, from this point, one can conveniently embark on a ferry journey to any of the enchanting Ionian Islands.
Rhodes Town
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Rhodes Town, the capital city of the island, has a rich history that dates back to the fifth century BC. It offers a multitude of historical sites to explore, all tucked away within the maze-like alleys of the Old Town. Encircled by ancient walls, this part of Rhodes Town exudes a heavenly charm, especially when it is beautifully illuminated at night.
In stark contrast, the new part of town is a world apart, bustling with shops, bars, and restaurants. It also boasts the best beach in the vicinity. Although Rhodes can get quite busy, given its past as the site of the Colossus, one of the ancient wonders of the world, it is definitely a destination worth visiting.
Heraklion
The bustling and slightly chaotic capital city of Crete possesses a vibrant energy that will gradually captivate you, should you give it the opportunity. The primary attractions are situated within the walled section of the city, and the old town offers a delightful exploration experience. With a magnificent fortress extending into the harbor and a lively waterfront, Heraklion serves as an ideal base for exploring the rest of Crete.
Additionally, the Palace of Knossos is a noteworthy stop, and there are numerous intriguing museums that will capture your interest. Although the modern part of the city may lack attractiveness and be bustling, there are still pleasant shopping options and restaurants to discover.
Nafplio
Nafplio, once the capital of modern Greece, boasts a charming ambiance and captivating architecture, rendering it one of Greece’s most exquisite cities. This alluring destination attracts both tourists and locals, resulting in occasional crowding along its historic streets and picturesque harbor front.
Situated strategically, Nafplio is adorned with three fortresses along its periphery, providing history enthusiasts with an opportunity to explore these sites and relish the breathtaking panoramic vistas of the sea and hills. With its faded grandeur and remarkable blend of Venetian and Ottoman architectural styles, Nafplio exudes an enchanting atmosphere that beckons visitors.
Chania
Chania, situated on the coast of Crete, is a delightful and captivating destination that will capture your heart with its unique ambiance. The charming old town is brimming with character, featuring a blend of Turkish and Venetian architecture that adorns its winding alleys, while cozy cafes dot the streets. A brief stroll away, the old port beckons with its iconic lighthouse, adding to the allure of Chania. This is an authentic place that showcases the true essence of Cretan culture. You can also venture out to explore other parts of the island, with Samaria Gorge being a particularly excellent day-trip option.
Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki, the cultural capital of Greece, is the second largest city in the country and boasts a vibrant cultural scene. Throughout the year, numerous festivals and events take place, adding to the city’s lively atmosphere. Situated on the Gulf of Thessaloniki, this cosmopolitan destination has a rich history spanning over three thousand years. As a result, visitors can explore charming Roman ruins, old Ottoman buildings, and magnificent Byzantine churches.
Strolling along the picturesque waterfront is a delightful experience, with the highlight being the 15th century White Tower, offering stunning views of the sea. Thessaloniki is renowned for its bustling nightlife, animated music scene, and delectable local cuisine, ensuring there is something to suit every taste. The city’s vibrant energy is further enhanced by its large student population, creating a multicultural and dynamic ambiance throughout.
Athens is one of the 15 Best Cities to Visit in Greece
Athens is a city steeped in history, boasting a plethora of historic sites for visitors to explore. The most impressive of these is undoubtedly the Acropolis, which towers above the city in all its glory. While the city is home to many ancient monuments, buildings, and ruins dating back over two millennia, it is not particularly aesthetically pleasing due to rampant modernization, which often sees these historic sites sandwiched between new developments.
However, there are still some areas that have managed to retain their charm, such as the picturesque neighborhoods of Plaka and Monastiraki. As the home to nearly half of Greece’s population, the capital is a bustling and lively place to visit, with plenty of fantastic restaurants, atmospheric cafes, and bars to enjoy.
In addition to its vibrant nightlife, Athens also boasts a range of excellent museums. Once you’ve had your fill of the city’s stunning historical sites, you can head to nearby Piraeus and take a boat to any of Greece’s beautiful islands.
Piraeus
Piraeus, situated a mere ten kilometers away from the heart of Athens, serves as the historic port of the capital, despite being regarded as an independent entity today. While Piraeus may not be visually appealing for the most part, the smaller harbors of Zea Marina and Mikrolimano are the only ones truly worth exploring.
However, the primary allure of Piraeus lies in its status as the largest port in the Mediterranean and the gateway to Greece’s countless islands. Within a short span of time, you will find yourself transported to a picturesque Greek island, far removed from the urban sprawl of Piraeus.
Larissa
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Larissa, situated along the Pinios River, holds a significant historical value as one of Greece’s oldest locations, having been inhabited for approximately eight millennia. As a result, it boasts numerous captivating archaeological sites, featuring remnants of Byzantine and Ottoman ruins scattered throughout the area.
The awe-inspiring ancient theater and the remnants of a Neolithic acropolis are particularly noteworthy and should not be missed during a visit. Presently, Larissa has transformed into a vibrant university town, offering a pleasant environment for those looking to spend some quality time.
Ioannina
Ioannina is a must-visit destination with its picturesque location on the banks of Lake Pamvotis and charming old town. Although the modern part of the city may seem similar to other urban areas, the historic district with its minarets, fortress, and ancient walls exudes a unique atmosphere that is perfect for leisurely strolls. Additionally, Ioannina is a vibrant city with a large student population, and there are plenty of exciting day-trip options available in the surrounding areas. For example, you can explore the monasteries on Nissi Island or marvel at the stunning caves of Perama.
